Landon Donovan called up to U.S. National Team for 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup

Landon Donovan called up to U.S. National Team for 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup

Landon Donovan’s hiatus from the U.S. National Team has officially come to an end.

The LA Galaxy forward was named to the 23-man U.S. roster for next month’s 2013 Gold Cup on Thursday. The call-up ends a near year-long absence from the national team for Donovan’s as his last appearance came in a 1-0 victory at Mexico last August.

“When Landon came back in the end of March after the long break, he needed time to get back in a rhythm, get back in shape and work on his game again. I think now the process is on a good roll,” said Klinsmann. “He’s getting sharper every game and every week. We’ve watched his games and believe now is a good time to get him back into the National Team and give him the opportunity to prove his point.

“He knows that the group that played the World Cup Qualifiers is ahead of the curve and have a very strong position right now, and that he’s been observed by us and has to rebuild his case,” added Klinsman. “We have all respect for what he has done in the past, but sports are about the present and about the future, and that’s what we are building on. We are really happy to have him back in the group, and he has the opportunity now to show where he’s at.”